No takers for apprentice positions on offer at pub

A pub restaurant owner in Staffordshire has been left scratching his head after advertising for four apprentices – and receiving no takers.

The vacancies at The Red Lion in Brereton, near Rugeley, are for two front-of-house staff and two kitchen workers. The apprenticeships have been advertised on a government website and at job centres for the past month.

Owner Doug Wilkinson said he was shocked at the lack of response. "It beggars belief. I thought there was a recession on," he said.

The vacancies generated just three inquiries. Two interviews were arranged but no one turned up.

Another inquiry was received from a young hopeful from Stafford but he did not drive and the buses did not fit in with shift times.

"I'm absolutely dumbfounded," said Mr Wilkinson, 53. "I'd rather give apprentices a chance than take on experienced staff. At the end of 18 months to two years they will have received the equivalent of an NVQ level 3/4 qualification without having to attend college if they don't want to go.

"At the same time those aged 16 to 18 get paid over £100 a week, with a different pay structure for those who are older.

"That's not bad money given they're getting a qualification at the end of it.

"Our second chef has worked in the French Alps and all over Europe, it's a great chance for them."

Manager Stephen Corns said front-of-house duties included welcoming customers, taking bookings and answering the phone while the kitchen posts involved preparation work, pot wash, plating up and cooking.

"I honestly don't understand the lack of interest," he said. "We've been shocked by the response."

Mr Wilkinson took over The Red Lion 14 months ago and has transformed the business in that time. He said: "We're lucky to be in this position. We're doing extremely well and we're desperate for staff."